Blessed Self, Om Namah Sivaya,In the spirit of expansion of the Sivananda Organization, the 4th of October 2009 saw the opening of the first Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre in Eastern Europe in Vilnius, Lithuania. On the most full moon of the year the new Sivananda Centre attracted over 250 people for an Open House day. Yoga Acharyas Swami Durgananda and Swami Atmaramananda blessed the Centre with uplifting talks on Swami Vishnudevananda, sharing their love and enthusiasm with all. The organization is very blessed to be instruments of the Masters, for bringing the teachings to this new part of the world.

Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed Selves,It was felt that mankind will be at a critical juncture in the very near future. There was a strong desire among all present to reach out to as many of our extended family as possible; to bring them together to renew their commitment to and inspire them to extend Swami Vishnu-devananda's vision of "Unity in Diversity" in the true spirit of the True World Order. We found at the Yoga Reunion that this is what most participants wanted - a direct and renewed contact with the teachings through those who had the direct contact with Swami Vishnu-devananda. We very much look forward to your input and your participation of this event. May the Gurus blessings be with us all.

May Master and Swamiji's blessings be with us, always.Prem and Om,Swami Mahadevananda

Q 1: Does the mental equilibrium of an advanced Yogi get affected when attacked by some serious disease? How does he/she react on such occasions?

A: Never. If there is any thought of the body or the disease or the bodily affliction or something that cannot be tolerated by the fleshy frame, remember that he is no advanced Yogi or saint or Sannyasin. He who has no thought of himself or the surroundings or the world, he who is centered in his own Self or his beloved Ishta Devata or gracious Guru, and he who is entirely oblivious of limitations of any sort, and identifies himself with the limitless, disease-less, unconditioned, all-pervasive Brahman, is a true and advanced Yogi or Bhakta or Jnani; and not otherwise. He can have no match in the whole world in the matter of utter indifference either towards his disease or towards his limited, perishable body or the whole world. He always remains in his own Self and he never loses his balance under any circumstance. He firmly believes that he is the Infinite, the Absolute Brahman. He firmly believes that death awaits all and snatches away everyone at one time or the other and that the six Urmis Shoka, Moha, Kshut, Pipasa, Jara and Mrityu-- are but common to all the Jivas, not necessarily mankind, and that he is the deathless, imperishable and eternal Brahman. Hence there can be no mental upset for him even amidst crucial tests.

Q 2: How are people benefited by a pilgrimage?

A: This question has to be answered by each pilgrim for himself. The spiritual benefit always depends entirely upon the heart's faith. Faith is the life-breath of the spirit in man. No spiritual endeavour can be fruitful without it. With it, no spiritual achievement is impossible. If a pilgrim heartily believed, was convinced, and was certain-at-heart that all his sins would be washed away, that he would attain Moksha and get beyond the wheel of Samsara, there is absolutely no reason why it should not actually prove to be so. A pilgrimage like Badri-Yatra can wash off all your sins and enable you to take great strides towards the Great Goal-- Self-realization--if you have firm faith in its glory. But, remember, the test of this faith is what you are after you return from the pilgrimage; if, after the pilgrimage, you prove that you have been thoroughly purged of all your sins, that all the evil Samskaras have been washed away by the holy waters of the rivers you have bathed in, and that you have been filled with the spiritual vibrations of the sublime atmosphere you have sojourned in, and if you live a pure life of righteousness, devotion, truth, love and purity, you have certainly been liberated. The pilgrimage has served its supreme purpose. Some pilgrims do rise to such spiritual heights, though their number may be small, and though they may not advertise their achievements.

Sit in Dandasana (Staff Pose) with your hands several inches behind your hips and your fingers pointing forward. Bend your knees and place your feet on the floor, big toes turned inward, heels at least a foot away from your buttocks. Exhale, press your inner feet and hands down against the floor, and lift your hips until you come into a reverse tabletop position, torso and thighs approximately parallel to the floor, shins and arms approximately perpendicular. Without losing the height of your hips, straighten your legs one at a time. Lift your hips still higher without hardening your buttocks. Press your shoulder blades against your back torso to support the lift of your chest. Without compressing the back of your neck, slowly drop your head back. Hold for 30 seconds. Sit back down in Dandasana with an exhale.

JALA SAMADHI – The ceremony of merging a body with sacred water. Swami Vishnu-devananda attained Mahasamadhi on November 9, 1993. His body was then placed into the Ganges at the Sivananda Kutir, and the rite named jalasamadhi was performed, merging the abandoned body with the water. His body was then placed into the Ganges at the Sivananda Kutir, and the rite named jalasamadhi was performed, merging the abandoned body with the water. His body was then placed into the Ganges at the Sivananda Kutir, and the rite named jalasamadhi was performed, merging the abandoned body with the water.

Knowledge reveals itself. It is not taught. It embraces everything in its fold. - Sri Swami Sivananda

WHEAT-FREE CREPES – For breakfast or a snack these light crispy crepes are so good that they can be served plain or with maple syrup. For a festive breakfast, serve them with Baked Bananas. They can also be filled with either a sweet or savoury filling, folded and topped with syrup or sauce. Serves 4 -6

1. Combine the soy flour, rice flour, baking powder and salt 2. Add the water a little at a time, stirring so that the mixture is smooth 3. Gradually beat in the honey and the oil – the mixture should be quite runny 4. Heat a heavy frying pan over high heat, reduce to medium heat and brush with oil. 5. Add a ladleful of the mixture to the pan and flatten out thinly with the back of the spoon 6. Fry until the centre bubbles, turn it over and cook until golden brown 7. Repeat with the remaining mixture to make 10-12 crepes 8. Serve hot, with syrup or sauce

Equip yourself with these ingredients. The four means of salvation: Viveka (discrimination between the real and the unreal); Vairagya (dispassion); Shad Sampat (six-fold virtues) and Mumukshutva (eagerness for liberation). Then add Hearing, Reflecting and Meditation. Then alone you can have an integral experience, Self-realization. - Sri Swami Sivananda

Om Namah Sivaya, Greetings from the Headquarters. In early October the Camp had a wonderful conclusion of the TTC. We started to close down everything for the winter as the cold has been slowly creeping in. The Thanksgiving weekend was amazing with one of the largest gatherings of guests students and teachers that we have had in many, many years for this occasion. Shankara Chaitanya and Lalita Ambika, organised a group trip of 35 teachers and students to come to the Ashram from the Montreal Centre. The Satsangs were powerful with dynamic chanting. We had a Sitar concert, with our neighbour Uwe Neumann and Ravi on Tabla which was applauded with resounding cheering and clapping. The cookery workshop with Shankara Chaitanya was a big success with 25 people, some coming from the local area. The weekend was appreciated by new guests and old. The Temple was busy during the long weekend with many devotees arriving. We said goodbye to Uni, who served in Temple kitchen the whole season. We also bid a fond farewell to Swami Gayatriananda who once again gave her all in the service of running the Temple for another long summer. All send their pranams. All at the Camp send Pranams and prayers for Peace. OM.

Om Namo Narayanaya. A Ganapati homa was held to clear the way for the high energy of the busy season now starting at the Ashram. It coincided with the beginning of the new Malayalam month and also with the birthday of Lord Dhanwanthari, the namesake of our Ashram. The 'day-off' was brought forward to a Thursday so that a new yoga vacation could start on 16th, as usual. The numbers of guests for the new yoga vacation increased to 65, and were most inspired, with lots of questions about Kirtan, meditation and a joyous spirit during karma yoga. Both Lalitha Sahasranama and Mahisasura Mardini are now being chanted to the Divine Mother every evening in the Devi temple. For Diwali, both staff and guests beautifully arranged candles throughout the temple. Painters and plasterers were carrying out various jobs in all corners of the Ashram before it becomes full season in mid-November.

In mid-October preparations for the TTC in November continued with the renovations and painting work on the Kailash and Vaikuntham buildings. New staff started to arrive. We welcomed Atma Jyoti from Spain. Urishima came to help out as a karma yogi until the TTC begins. A new house was officially opened on Sunday for our paid staff, Latta and her two daughters. Om Namah Sivaya from all staff at Neyyar Dam.

Om Namo Narayanaya - Greetings from Uttar Kashi. With the blessings of Master and Swamiji the first week of TTC went very well. We had a Ganapati Homa, followed by an inauguration ceremony, with 30 students being initiated into the course. One Friday most students ventured into Uttar Kashi to explore the local area. In the first week of TTC, the group energy was very good with students being very positive and open to the course/teachings. We enjoyed clear blue skies and warm sunny days with the signs of winter quickly approaching as nights became longer and cooler. Vishnu Kutir work continued on the boundary wall around the compound and by the riverside. Construction went very well. We started work in September and expect to finish at the end of November. Gangotri Cave closed for the winter after Diwali. Staffs are well and send their pranams.

In mid-October TTC's third week went very well. As Gangaji water levels are low, we wrapped up warm for a beautiful morning Satsang at Samadhi Rock. We had a Sudarsana Homam. We went on a trip to Nachiketa Lake where the weather was very clear, warm and fresh as we hiked through the jungle forest path, enjoying the monkeys and spectacular landscape views of snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. It was a wonderful day with walks, scenery, Puja and then time for shopping in Uttar Kashi on the way back. Pranams to all.

Om Namo Narayanaya. In early October the yoga vacation course went well. The preparation for the high season also went well. Suvida left and Chinnamma, Santhosh and Iswara arrived. All staff are well and doing their spiritual sadhana. OM.

Om Namah Sivaya! Early October was inspiring. Bob Bourdon and Joanne Parent visited the Ashram, sharing the Native American traditions. We learned lessons of the land, they performed three sweat lodges, lead us in evening story-telling and lead a beautiful morning sun rising ceremony. Lila Lolling lead a Deaf Yoga Retreat, with 15 students. We were blessed to have the group with us and once again learned from their community. We hosted an Advanced Permaculture Design Course with Dave Jacke and Michael Judd. There were 20 students in the group, who learned and designed future plans for all aspects and facets of the Ashram. Srinivasan, Vidya Chaitanya (from Los Angeles Centre), Gauri Devi, Mahadev and Kumari all attended the course with the intention to integrate the design with a whole perspective.

In mid-October the Ashram completed its first Advanced Permaculture Design Course with Dave Jacke and Michael Judd. During the course of the week the students explored the land, its patterns and many of the systems at work here. During that weekend we had a full house with other guests arriving for a yoga vacation. We held an Emotional Freedom Technique workshop with Kamala and Marilyn. It was a beautiful weekend with the changing colours of Fall and clear blue skies. Om Shanti. May the Gurus' blessings of be with us all.

Om Namah Sivaya! In early October the first week of TTC went well as students got used to the schedule. All did well, as well as the staff and teachers. We had 2 astounding performances, one by musician Michael Irvine on Sarod and Krishna on tablas, and one by Sri Lata Suresh and her student on Bharata Natyam dance. We also had a visit of Komilla Sutton, an Indian and British astrologer who reminded us of our time to be calm and cautious as well as the necessity to replenish ourselves as overall we are suffering from weakness due to 5 planets in debilitation this month and aggressive KE-MARS conjunction in Cancer which happens exactly when NASA sent rockets to the moon.

Sarada and Mike, who renounced university careers, moved next door to the Yoga Farm, shared with the students the joys and difficulties of their decision to live a simple life on the land, off the grid and growing their own food. One Sunday a group of students of the Intermediate Yoga course came to join the good energy.

In mid-October the 3rd week of TTC went quickly with lots of special programs: We welcomed Dr. Radin and his wife and assistant, senior researcher and scientist at Noetic Institute, who are doing research about the precognitive faculty of the mind. He gave two very well received presentation to the TTC about Para-psychology as discovered by the new Science to prove the existence of the mind and ESP. He hooked up some of the staff to EEG machine to be part of his research on how meditative minds are more perceptive and precognitive. TTC also enjoyed thoroughly the presentation on Yoga Pschology by Uma Krishnamurty and her dance performance the next day. Manoj Chalam, an Indian engineer, turning fervent Vedantin and devotee selling murtis for a living, came after and gave us great lectures on myths and symbolism of Indian Gods and Goddesses. Students had a nice Puja at the Durga temple. 22 students took mantra initiation and received their spiritual name. The TTC students started teaching in groups, performing well. By the grace of Guru, another TTC is about to complete, steered by the Guru's will. This is a sincere group of seekers following a difficult, steep and yet rewarding sadhana journey. We welcomed Brother Rolph who arrived from Montreal for a week in California. We also welcomed Durgadevi from Holland, an ex-grad TTC who decided to bring thousands of tulip and flower bulbs from Holland to plant at the Ashram to be bloomed in the spring. Pranams to all.

Om Namo Narayanaya, Blessed Selves. In early October, our staff were busy preparing for the upcoming season. The buildings were painted, bathrooms renovated, and gardens planted. Thankfully many new staff members arrived to help with these preparations. The weather has been hot and sunny and the ocean calm.

Om Namah Sivaya. The last week of the International TTC with its focus on elevating philosophy and advanced pranayama passed quickly. In the end all 50 students finished the course successfully and the graduation was celebrated with much joy.

In the first week of the month we offered special workshops for back problems and better alignment whereas the Satsangs were kept more philosophical. Then winter arrived all of a sudden with a first untouched layer of fresh snow on the meadows and hills around. For a few days we had a really wonderful scenery around. We did Karma Yoga mainly outside, cleared and tidied the garden and garden tools whilst enjoying fresh winter air. The lectures inside focused on the relationship between mind and body.

Talks about vegetarian food and a nice vegetarian cooking workshop were much appreciated. The yoga vacation guests were very keen to study yoga and grateful for the uplifting experience.

Om Namah Sivaya. We had a international group of beginners and advanced guests for our "Positive Thinking" week at the beginning of the month. For most of them it was the first Ashram experience and it was nice to see how the group energy was developing and the chanting became livelier day by day. Eventually, it is getting colder now and we cannot teach on the outside platform any more – luckily we have our recently extended Meditation Hall with lots of space inside. On the 17th we celebrated Diwali with a special Satsang and decorated the meditation room with many candles – which created a nice energy. Many bookings are coming in already for the All Saints Retreat, which will also be our last weekend before the Ashram will be closed for November.

Om Namah Sivaya. The highlight in October was the Yoga Retreat in Schluesshof, 2 hours from Berlin which we organize twice a year. It was a wonderful time for both students and the staffs. We could benefit a lot from the yoga practise in nature, calm meditation mornings, powerful mantra singing, asana classes, inspiring lectures and refreshing silent walks. The German autumn was very auspicious and it let us enjoy freshness of the forest and the nearby lake. We had 70 participants – they were all happy and went back home grateful and inspired. The Centre has been cared for by our teachers and karma yogis. Courses in the center are running nicely, we had an inspiring cooking workshop and a headstand workshop. Our garden has been renewed and prepared for the winter by a karma yogi. It looks very beautiful and fresh. Swami Atmaramananda went to Vilnius in Lithuania, to prepare the new Centre for the inauguration, which took place on Sunday, the 4th of October with an official Opening program with Yoga Acharaya of Europe, Swami Durgananda. Now he is in Vrindavan, India for TTC, ATTC and the Yatra which will take place in the beginning of November. OM.

Om Namah Sivaya. Hello from Buenos Aires. In early October normal activities in the Centre continued with courses for beginners, a Meditation Course plus regular classes. We also had a workshop about Indian cooking, making Indian breads. We put our efforts into the preparation of the Teachers Training Course which started mid-October.

In mid-October, as the sun sets later in the day, the student volume is distributed evenly within every class offered by the center. Meditations continue on Fridays and Sundays. Every Monday Kirtan workshop is held and then a choir practice every day in preparation for the year-end party. We also hold a Saturday practice for advanced students in the sample well. On Mondays we have the third series of meditation courses, with students find a guide to understanding the nature of the mind and developing concentration and inner serenity. Prem & Om to all.

TTC 2009 Merlo, San Luis – ArgentinaWe started the second TTC in Argentina, this time in the Village of Merlo, that belongs to the Province of San Luis. The place is very cozy and favorable for Sadhana; it is surrounded by splendid nature, a privileged view to the chain of hills called Comechingones located in the western central part of the country, with paths to the spring called Piedra Blanca, right below the hills...where you can hear absolute silence. It has a wide garden, with a pool and acres of tree-lined park, where there is a great variety of native plants: herbaceous, creeping, bushy and aromatic. There is a special microclimate in the zone; it is considered one of the three best climates in the world, due to the large quantity of negative ions and solar energy that generate a higher ozone concentration, purifying the region's air. The zone is 1000 mts. above sea level. The variety of birds is impressive, consisting of condors, crows, red ovenbirds, goldfinches, woodpeckers and the unmistakable swallows, among others. It is really something special, where you can hear the birds humming, the water from the spring flowing and gentle whistle of the wind. The view, the hills, the architecture and the spring remind us of beloved India...some people say the hills looks like the great Arunachala, the mountain of Lord Shiva, the entrance of the temple where we meditate and practice devoted to Satguru Swami Sivananda in Rishikesh, and the spring to the great Ganga...it is like a part of India in Argentina. We have a marvelous group of 19 spiritual seekers, of different countries in Latin America: Chile, Bolivia, Uruguay, Argentina and Colombia. The group is very calm and quiet. Most of them arrived on Saturday, October 17th and on Sunday we had an opening in which we could sense their spirit of internal quest. Swami Premananda, Kanti Devi, Radha, Madhavi, Vyasa, Gauri, Laura Ruiz, German, Mahadev and Ambika arranged the place sweetly to welcome everyone in a typical Sivananda atmosphere. Up to now, we have enjoyed fresh and sunny days and nights covered with shooting stars. Kanti Devi, Swami Premananda, Radha and Madhavi delight us with their conferences, speeches and asana classes. Their presence clearly brings us the energy of the masters. Shanti Devi also arrived to make delicious meals, where she has already placed Sri Krishna to adore him. The gift-day went by so fast! We enjoyed a visit to the center of Merlo Village, with a beautiful excursion to the hills. We have already done two energetic and silent walks along the path to the hill, meditating in an adorable place with waterfalls falling over the rocks. We had a special guest, Sergio Bulgakov and Juan Bianchi, whom delighted us with a concert of Classical Music from India with Sitar and Tablas. Some staff came back and joined the group: Narada and Saraswati of Neuquen.

Om Namah Sivaya to all Blessed Selves from the Chennai Centre. In early October the climate was still hot. The monsoon did not appear in Chennai so far this year. The student numbers was slightly up from the previous month. We had two beginners' courses, with good number of students attending. Deevali, the light festival, encouraged the city into becoming colourfully busy.

Om Namah Sivaya. In early October, by the gurus' grace the Centre's activities went very well. All the classes and courses ran beautifully. The month started with new beginners' course at 6:30am with good numbers of enthusiastic students. We welcomed Amaliya as staff. She will be here for the minority days. Pranams to all Sivananda family.

In mid-October the Centre's activities went well. All the classes continued energetically. We started with a new beginners' course at 8:00am with adequate students. One Friday we spend great time with Swami Mahadevananda ji at the Centre. Pranams to all the Sivananda family. OM Shanti!

Om Namo Narayanaya. In early October two new Yoga 1 classes started. The city was in the festive mood for Diwali. Sunday's Kid's class and Trial class were full. Sunday Satsangs continued well, with many teachers joining us. New books of Motilal Banarsidas, and other few publications, were displayed. We welcomed Swami Atmaramanandaji from Berlin on his way to Vrindavan TTC.

In mid-October a new Yoga 1 started with Koely Das teaching early morning. Swami Mahadevananda arrived here from Italy and spent two days. He visited the Dwarka Centre then left to Tokyo, Japan along with Mani Chaitanya. Sri Nagraj took the Monday Satsang with a good numbers of students attending. We send Om Namo Narayanaya to every one.

Om Namah Sivaya. Om Shanti. In early October we started Yoga 1 and Yoga 2. A trial class had 15 people attending. Other courses continued. There were good vibrations in the Centre after the Navaratri celebrations. We had good Open House Day, with some students keenly interested in the beginners' Yoga and cooking courses. Deewali celebration attracted students and teachers from other cities. We performed Lakshmi Puja with a lot of chanting, which gave to the Centre very good vibrations.

Om Namah Sivaya. OM & Prem to all. Early October was lively at the Centre, with plenty of activities. In addition to the usual courses, we had a morning workshop on "How to Increase Yoga Energy" and a very successful "Beginners Weekend" with 22 enthusiastic students. They spent the weekend enjoying yoga classes, nature walks and vegetarian meals. Durga taught the practice while Swami Krishnadevananda led the workshops on the 5 points. A highlight of the week was our Deepavali Celebration. We had about 60 students, including several children, in attendance. All had a chance to partake in the beautiful Puja. There were many prasads, plus a delicious Indian feast for everyone at the end. We began to put Prana into the upcoming Peace Festival. There are lovely posters, designed by Chandra, placed around the Centre, as well as garlands and leaflets.

Mid-October was a little slower due to the start of school half term. There was nevertheless a good turn out for our Peace Day. It was a day of free activities centring on Swamiji's Peace Mission. We had a talk on how to develop Inner Peace, Akhanda Kirtan of Om Namo Narayanaya and a powerful session of Likhita Japa – a new technique for many of the students there. The large screen and projector was set up to show the "In the Name of Peace" video. We had a big class, with over 50 students, at 4pm. The day ended with a Ganapathi Homa conducted by a local priest. Swami Gayatriananda provided the Tamil translation and helped to make sure that all ran smoothly. Swamiji's love and vision were strongly felt and gave us a chance to deepen our connection with his mission. Staff are well and send OM & Prem to ALL.

Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed Selves! The highlight of the month was the celebration of Navaratri during the evening satsangs with Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati murthi pujas well appreciated by all the students. After the vacations, lot of people were very enthusiastic to practice Yoga. We started a Yoga 1 with twenty participants taught by Gauri. We had an Meditation intensive course with a good participation, taught by Vishnu, plus a Vegetarian-Ayurvedic cooking class, taught by Saraswati. The participants were very happy to learn vegetarian and ayurvedic recipes. Another highlight of the month was the visit and program of Marilyn Rossner who came with Sister Leona. Marilyn gave a wonderfull message of Peace, Love of God through the practice of Yoga, she spoke about Swamiji, the early years in the West and his Peace missions. Sister Leona shared a few words about Swamiji and chanted the "Ave Maria". Marilyn concluded with inspiring messages from the others planes. The main asanas and meditation room was full. with one hundred and forty five people, who all left inspired. We had an Open House with the participation of sixty people. They enjoyed the yoga classes, the introduction to meditation, the main lecture on Yoga, with asanas demonstration and the Kitcheri to conclude the evening. A few teachers went to Vrindavan to do the ATTC and translate the course. We visited a new place for a future retreat. Four residents from various parts of Spain came to the center for sadhana during the holiday weekend. May the Divine Mother protect us, guide us and be always with you all. Om Shanti. Pranams to all.

Om Namah Sivaya. In early October all the work, activities and classes continued smoothly. The Sanskrit class also went well. We started new beginners' class with ten students. All other functions continued smoothly. We celebrated Dasera (Vijaya Dasami) in the Madurai Ashram. Teacher Mariswari visited our Centre with her students. Om Shanti!!

Om Namah Sivaya. In early October Swami Mahadevananda and Swami Jnaneswariananda went to Milan to inspect the work on the location for the new center. It will require at least 2 more weeks before it is ready to be occupied. A few walls have been moved, new parquet is being laid in some of the rooms, and the bathrooms are fitted with new fixtures. There was the Milan Yoga Festival this month. New TTC graduates were on hand to help operate our table in the exhibit hall for 3 days. Swami Jnaneswariananda gave a talk on Inner Peace and World Peace at the Festival. Omkari, who runs the affiliated Centre in Florence, taught a class to an overflow crowd at the festival. Lots of brochures and flyers were distributed. Everyone is looking forward to the official opening of the Centre in November.

Om Namah Sivaya! In early October, it was a quiet week, with a very good attendance of pupils. Meditations continued on Fridays and Sundays. Every Monday we performed Kirtan workshop which grows in attendance every week. The advanced students practiced for the yoga show. We also hosted a workshop on Surya Namaskar/Sun Salutations, with detailed teachings and practice of greeting the sun. We explored its spiritual significance, physical benefits while strengthened skills and knowledge at the same time. Om Shanti to all!!

Om Namah Sivaya. In early October we had the first frost of the season in Montréal. The days remained nice and sunny. In addition to the regular classes, we started a Positive Thinking course and held a kriya workshop one weekend. We welcomed the local sufi group for an amazing evening of music, dancing and whirling where everyone took part. We had a Lalita Sahasranama Puja for Diwali. The staff from Val Morin all came with the priests for the celebration. We finished the evening with a very nice Indian feast. The mood was very devotional.

In mid-October the Centre's activities ran as usual, with new Yoga 1 and 2, and on-going open classes. We were very happy to have Swami Ambikananda and the Val Morin staff join us for Satsang and Sunday prayers. Pranams to all.

Om Namah Sivaya. We celebrated Vijaya Dasami and two weeks later Divali with beautiful Pujas, Mantra chanting and a feast for the participants. Many new students showed up for the second Open Day in the fall and enrolled for upcoming courses and classes. The course "Yoga and Anatomy" started its first round with a strong group of very interested students. This course deals in theory and practice concentrating on the effects of Asanas on the various organ systems of the body. A new one day retreat 'Fit with Yoga and Ayurveda" was well attended and appreciated by the participants. Students had a full Cooking class, meal, lecture on 'Ayurveda Checklist for healthy nutrition', Asana class and Satsang on 'Prana-Tejas-Ojas'. A highly motivated group of teachers joined the teachers further training weekend on the topic "how to integrate beginners into open classes". The Centre underwent another round of renovation work with new bathtubs and doors being installed in various parts of the building. The Centre is getting ready for many upcoming special programmes: weekend workshops with Swami Sivadasananda and Swami Ramapriyananda as well as a "Yoga and Mantra Day" and a weekend retreat "Yoga and health food". Pranams.

Om Namah Sivaya! In early October the Fall season was slowly bringing in lower temperatures. Swami Sadasivananda returned from the TTC at the Ranch. We were delighted to welcome Dr Robert Svoboda, who gave four programmes one weekend with a very interesting and clear talk on the science of Vastu, two workshops on 'Maintaining the Balance in the Time of Crisis', and 'The Chronic Fatigue Syndrome' attracted some forty students. Dr Svoboda shared his insights into how to manage our bodies and minds in the times of great changes that are taking place globally and emphasized the need for simplicity and equanimity. The weekend ended with a focus on Karma, Samskara, Vasana and Vrtti. Kumari and Minakshi provided an excellent service in the past months.

In mid-October we had a special guest, David Briscoe, who is one of the leading experts in Macrobiotics and Healing in the USA today. He gave very well attended lectures on Acid-Alkaline Diet Balance and Facial Diagnosis, and a packed cooking workshop. We were very grateful for his wisdom and teachings. The open classes tend to remain at lower levels than before. A lot of students are very careful in spending money but the staff are eager to reach out to them. All staff are sending pranams to all the Sivananda family.

Om Namah Sivaya. This eventful month started with the 9-day celebration of Navaratri in honour of the Divine Mother. A south Indian priest performed beautiful and elevating Pujas which were attended by sincere and devoted students. Swami Kailasananda gave a special week-end program on the topic of Creative Visualization which included a very well attended workshop and asana class and two much appreciated Satsangs entitled "Yoga, the art of right living" and "What is the goal of my life". The monthly Open Day was very successful with many newcomers visiting the Centre to participate in the asana demonstration, trial class and introduction to meditation. People commented feeling inspired having discovered yoga. Our stand at the Salon Zen, a 5-day exhibition on well-being in Paris, resulted in positive feedbacks and the ongoing asana demonstrations left onlookers in awe. The Centre teaching schedule has now been extended with the newly acquired 1st floor: an extra pregnancy and kids' class have been added as well as daily soft classes on weekdays. With the help of karma yogi's, the carpets were removed and the renovation of the wooden floors will soon start.

Om Namah Sivaya, Blessed selves. In mid-October we had a beautiful Satsang with Swami Mahadevananda. It was very well attended. Swamiji soon left to India and Japan. We thanked him for all the support and inspiration during his stay in Italy. Swami Jnaneshwariananada left to Milan and Padmavati and Mahalaksmi left to Canada. We stated a Yoga 1 on Thursdays. The new teachers from the TTC in Umbria assisted. Om Shanti.

Om Namo Narayanaya, Blessed Selves. In early October we were excited to present the grand reopening of the SF Ayurvedic Center, which we celebrated in style with a "Meet the Healers" party. Ganeshan, our Indian music teacher, and Radha Devi began the festivities with some ragas interspersed with talks on the Ayurveda of music. Our main practitioner, Iris Campion, gave a nice talk on the basics of Ayurveda. Then, we celebrated with a feast prepared with love by Radhika. We finished the day off by blessing the room with a Vishnu Puja. Guests had a chance to talk one on one with the healers, view the newly remodelled treatment room and bathroom, and to learn how Ayurveda fits in line with the Yogic principles of health. At an evening Satsang Iris read an interesting story on Dhanvantari. Visitor Padma has been invaluable helping Swami Padmapadananda with the Prison Project and sharing her computer skills.

In mid-October dream expert Craig Webb joined us for our Sunday Satsang. He demonstrated biofeedback software and the many ways that this technology can be used to train the mind. He hooked up one of our guests and showed how the software monitors brain waves, breathing, hand temperature, skin conductivity, muscle tension, and other measurements. Then he showed us how they respond to stress, pranayama, and meditation. We were quite impressed to see technology prove the secrets that the Rishis intrinsically knew thousands of years ago. We were sad to say goodbye to our treasured guest, Padma. She dedicated her time here to helping us make many improvements to the Centre, and we are extremely grateful. One example of her contribution is the video footage of Swami Padmaji reading from the Sivananda Upanishad as well as student testimonials, which are now available on our website, Facebook, and YouTube. Thanks to her we can say we have finally joined the new millennium. Pranams to all from San Francisco Centre.

Om Namah Sivaya. After a long summer at the Yoga Camp, both Saraswati and Prahlada returned to the Toronto center, bringing in lots of Prana. Students and teachers were happy to see them. Along with them, Camilo and Kalyani came to be staff here. Camilo continues his India TTC registrations along with his other duties. Kalyani took up advertising and publicity tasks with lots of enthusiasm. We planned poster runs, demonstrations and other methods of attracting more students. We had lots of people registering for the upcoming Yoga Retreat. Classes and Courses were with full strength. Prahlada has started Hatha Yoga Intensive course with room full of students. Saraswati has started a Yamas and Niyamas Course. She also gave lots of workshops both in September and October. Also in October, we had an exciting drumming workshop with Rufus. Apart from this news, a lot of World Wide Yoga Teachers Reunion work was done on the main website. Arjuna returned back to the Yoga Camp. Pranams to all.

Om Namah Sivaya. In early October all the activities of our Centre contined smoothly. We started a new yoga class at the Government Women's College in Trivandrum. 50 students signed up for our classes for one month. We conducted a yoga talk and demonstration for the college students. We held our weekly Lalithasahasranama pooja We also conducted a kriya workshop for the beginners and a meditation workshop with Nataraj Ji, followed by a Satsang. Om Shanthi.

Om Namah Sivaya. A highlight of the month was a weekend with Swami Anantananda who came from Geneva for a special program entitled "Yoga Inspiration". The asana workshops were well received and the Satsangs on "Yoga Wisdom Tales" and "Eternal Truths in the Philosophy of East and West" were inspiring for all. Many new courses began and over the weekends we had a seminar on the topic "Breath – the Flow of Life", a "Cooking Course for New Vegetarians", and an Open Day where we received a good number of newcomers. Also over a weekend we renovated the lady's changing room which looks more welcoming now with a shiny new coat of paint. Navaratri was celebrated with inspiring Pujas for the Divine Mother, culminating in Vijaya Dasami and for Deepavali we had an "enlightening" Puja in candle light with many flower donations.

Om Namah Sivaya. October 2009 saw the opening of the first Eastern European Sivananda Yoga and Vedanta Centre. The open day, on the 4th of October, attracted over 250 people. Yoga Acharyas Swami Durgananda and Swami Atmaramananda blessed the Centre with uplifting talks on Swami Vishnudevananda, sharing their love and enthusiasm with all. The Centre was beautifully prepared with the support of many close teachers and students. The inauguration started at 10am with a Puja to the Masters Asana classes was divided into Beginners and intermediate. The morning intermediate class had 100 students. The number of students in the beginners' class was large enough that the mats were also in the hallway. Swami Durgananda delivered a very inspiring lecture on Swami Vishnudevananda 'life and mission as well as showing hundreds of Photos of Swamiji. The day concluded with a colourful classical Bharata Natyam Dance. Bhima came from London to direct the new Centre. The Centre gave its first Yoga 1 and meditation courses. The open classes were variable in numbers and Satsangs eagerly attended by consciences students. Much work is still to be done. Preparations were made for new Centre activities. New text was translated for the internet and announcement sheets. Sivananda cookies were lovingly baked for the Centre – students like them. Our cash resister arrived. Things ran well due to the support of the local teachers. Energy was concentrated on Centre promotions; the main concern was constructing a newsletter, updating the Internet site and finalising many details. Inserts were put in the brochures and a flyer run consequently done. More posters were designed for posting within the Centre. We installed a cash register at the reception later in October. Our first free trial class was small but well received and successful. One teacher assisted it to learn. Two recent TTC graduates started to assist the open classes.